The Lady - Opening Night Film

Running time: 127 mins

Tuesday, February 28th - 7pm at the California Theatre

Very few directors have run the gamut of crafting beautiful and haunting dramas (The Big Blue), magical family fantasies (Arthur and the Invisibles) and edgy, action-packed thrillers (The Professional, The Fifth Element). But Luc Besson effectively accomplishes each with a serious passion for the cinematic art form.

Cinequest proudly opens the 2012 festival with Luc Besson's latest, invigorating political-romantic drama, The Lady, a telling of the tormented life of Burmese activist Aung San Suu Kyi, brilliantly portrayed by Michelle Yeoh (Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon and Memoirs of a Geisha).

In 1988, Aung San Suu Kyi returned to her native Burma from Oxford, prompted by news of her mother's deteriorating health. With the country in political uproar and protestors filling the streets demanding democratic reform, the charismatic and politically engaged Suu Kyi, whose father fought for Burmese independence, found herself called upon to lead Burma out from under the shadow of military dictatorship as the General Secretary of the newly formed National League for Democracy. In 1990, a general election was held and the NLD won, but Suu Kyi was held under house arrest by the military junta and remained a prisoner in her own home for most of the next fifteen years.

Powerfully personifying Suu Kyi's tranquil defiance and wisdom, Michelle Yeoh gives one of the most affecting performances of her brilliant career. David Thewlis, as her British husband and her most outspoken advocate, triumphantly plays his role with great tenderness. "At once epic and intimate, disturbing and galvanizing, The Lady celebrates the struggle of a people and the difference that a single strong-willed individual can make in the world."

Join legendary film artist Luc Besson for a spectacular Opening Night celebration at the California Theatre. Post screening party will provide cocktails, scrumptious food, and music all at the beautiful new Hyatt Place San Jose.



Film Sponsored by Hyatt Place and NBC Bay Area.

Sponsor:

Cinequest Film Festival 22